BEIJING, April 7 (Xinhua) -- China and India pledged to further advance their relations as the foreign ministers from both countries held talks on Wednesday.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and Indian Foreign Minister Somanahalli Mallaiah Krishna exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues of common concern, a statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

Yang spoke highly of the China-India relationship, saying the two countries communicated and worked together well on major global issues, including combating the effects of the financial crisis and climate change.

"China attaches great importance to the bilateral ties and is willing to work with India for new progress, taking the 60th anniversary of China-India diplomatic relations as a chance," Yang said.

Krishna said strengthening friendly cooperation with China was the shared aspiration of the Indian people and that his country would work towards progressing the relationship to new levels.

After the talks, Yang and Krishna signed an agreement between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of India on the Establishment of the Direct Secure Telephone Link between the Chinese Premier and the Prime Minister of India.

The two countries have issued picture albums and envelopes to commemorate the 60 years' relations.